6 Ways To Slay Your Next Networking Event (and feel confident about it)!

Ah, networking the one thing most people dread doing in a social situation. Personally, I've done quite a bit of networking to understand how  intimidating it can be to include yourself in a circle of conversation or be the one person alone with a drink in hand. Don't worry, I've been there and luckily, for you, I have developed some tips and tricks to get you to become a #networkingqueen! 

Start with this: 

1. Research key attendees

Who's attending the event? Depending on what type of event you are attending the organizer will post a list of attendees. Once you've gotten a good look at the list start Instagramming and search for the people who you feel you'd want to connect with. Instagram is a great way to learn more about people's visual interests. 

2. Observe

Observing an event's atmosphere gives you an inside look into what kind of people are at the event. For instance, if you are at a fashion event look at what people are wearing and observe their movements. This will give you the inside scoop into their interests and will lead you to the next tip in this post. 

3. Find a common interest

"Oh my goodness, that girl is wearing the same bracelet I was looking at online a few days ago." Walk up to her and ask her about it. There is no harm in that. Finding a common interest between you and the other individual is a perfect way to initiate a conversation. 

4. Bring business cards

I've been guilty of not bringing business cards to an event and sadly lost the opportunity to connect with some rad individuals. Which is why I always keep a stack in a card case wherever I go. Business cards show that you care about following up with the other individual and is a great way to showcase your creative persona. If you don't have the budget to get a ton of cards printed click this link for a step-by-step tutorial on how to create your own. 

5. Make an impression

Usually, at events, there will be panelists of speakers where after they speak the audience is given the opportunity to ask a few questions. This is where researching before the event comes in handy. In order to make an impression, try to be one of the first three people to ask the panelists a question. Taking the initiative to ask a question shows that you are confident and unafraid of asking for advice. If Steve Jobs can do it, why can't you? 

6. Leave with at least 3-4 contacts & don't forget to reach out!

Yes, leaving with one contact is rewarding and deserves a pat on the back, but leaving with three to four contacts automatically lets you know that you've killed the event! Make sure that those business cards don't get crumbled at the bottom of your bag. Right when you get home, turn on your computer and send them a quick email reiterating how nice it was to meet them and include a CTA (call to action) by inviting them out for coffee to chat more! 

Now, my #networkingqueen you are ready to go out and conquer that event!

Leave me a comment down below if these tips worked for you and what tips you recommend one do at their next event? Make sure to follow me on instagram @anisaanorve for more tips on how to improve your professional career.

Sinceramente,

Anisa